14th Round of Commercial Coal Mine Auctions — Key Highlights

The Ministry of Coal launched the 14th Round of Commercial Coal Mine Auctions, marking a major step toward India’s energy self-reliance, sustainable mining, and cleaner use of coal resources.

🔹 First-Time Introduction: Underground Coal Gasification (UCG)

• UCG Provision Introduced for the First Time:
  This round introduces provisions for Underground Coal Gasification, allowing coal to be converted into gas in situ (underground) without the need for mining and transportation.
• Significance:
  • Enables utilisation of deep-seated, unmineable coal seams.
  • Promotes cleaner energy and reduced environmental footprint.
  • Boosts energy diversification and technology-driven coal utilisation.

🔹 Auction Details

Category	Details
Total Mines Offered	41
Mines with UCG Potential	21
Fully Explored Mines	20
Partially Explored Mines	21
Under CMSP Act, 2015	5 mines
Under MMDR Act, 1957	36 mines

🔹 Legislative Framework

• Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015 (CMSP):
  Enables transparent auction and allocation of coal mines post-cancellation of coal blocks by the Supreme Court.
• Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR):
  Governs the regulation and development of mines and minerals across India.

🔹 Objectives

• Enhance domestic coal production and reduce import dependency.
• Encourage private sector participation through transparent auctions.
• Promote technological innovation in the coal sector (like UCG).
• Contribute to Atmanirbhar Bharat in energy resources.

🔹 Background

• The commercial coal mining policy was launched in 2020, allowing private players to mine and sell coal without end-use restrictions.
• Since then, the Ministry has conducted 13 successful auction rounds prior to this one, significantly increasing private sector participation.

🔹 Significance for India

• Strengthens energy security amid rising power demand.
• Opens new investment opportunities in coal technology and energy transition.
• Aligns with India’s goals of sustainable and efficient resource utilisation.

Source: PIB